The end of the landline? How you can prepare for the Great British Switch Off

The Great British Switch Off is coming. That’s our name for the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) switch off that will take place next year.

If you haven’t already prepared for the switch, and you’re still using a traditional landline to make and receive calls, here’s what you need to know. By the end of 2025, the UK’s old telephone network will be retired, forcing everyone to find a new way to make and receive calls. But don’t fret because we’ve already got you covered.

Zen’s Digital Voice offers a future-proof solution with crystal-clear calls, valuable features, and even potential cost savings!

Understanding the Switch Off

Before we get into Digital Voice, let’s just take a quick look at the Great British Switch Off. Although the final termination date is late in 2025, many telephone exchanges up and down the country have already had their analogue services switched off.

As the UK prepares for a full fibre future, those old copper wires that have been used for years to carry broadband and voice are gradually being done away with. And if you are still able to receive a landline service at your address, one thing’s for certain: you won’t for very much longer.

So, if you haven’t already, now really is the time to start looking for an alternative. And that alternative comes in the shape of Digital Voice.

Why Digital Voice?

Digital Voice from Zen is the modern, all-IP replacement for traditional landline telephone services.

Although the technology used is vastly different, once you’ve set up your Digital Voice service, it works in much the same way as your telephone service always has – just pick up your phone to make and receive calls.

So why Digital Voice?

• Modern technology: The modern technology used for transmitting Digital Voice calls means that your phone service will continue to work seamlessly long after the PSTN switch-off.
• Easy setup: Setting up your Digital Voice service couldn’t be simpler. Just plug your existing phone into your router (using an adapter supplied with your Zen router if necessary), and that’s it!
• Flexibility: Digital Voice works with most existing handsets, and even gives you the freedom to make and receive home phone calls on multiple devices (including your mobile).
• Feature-rich: Digital Voice comes with a number of advanced features, including voicemail, call waiting, call diversion, call barring and more.

Your options: Digital Voice… or Extra

So, the only question you need to ask yourself now is ‘how much will I use my phone?’.

That’s because Digital Voice from Zen comes in two flavours: our standard Digital Voice service which costs £6 per month and comes with 1,000 included minutes for calling UK landlines and mobiles, or Digital Voice Extra which costs £17.99 per month for unlimited included calls.

If you’re interested in finding out more about Digital Voice, or you’re ready to make the switch, call 01706 902573, get in touch via live chat, or email sales@zen.co.uk.